Cars, lumber and avocados are just a few items that could see their prices increase if president-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs take effect. Throughout Trump’s campaign, he promised to impose tariffs on “day one,” but his targets — China, Canada and Mexico — are California’s biggest trading partners. Forty percent of the state’s imports come from China and Mexico. We look at which industries would be hit hardest, how businesses are preparing and whether consumers would have to pick up the check.
How Could Tariffs Affect California?

LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 04: Shipping containers are stacked beneath shipping cranes at the Port of Long Beach on December 4, 2024 in Long Beach, California. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is threatening new tariffs on multiple countries as his second term approaches after making tariffs a signature of his 2024 Presidential campaign. The ports of Los Angeles and neighboring Long Beach is the country’s busiest container port complex. (Mario Tama via Getty Images)
Guests:
Ana Swanson, trade and economics reporter, The New York Times
Don Lee, economics reporter, Los Angeles Times
Edward Alden, senior fellow, Council on Foreign Relations
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